Stuck at home? Dog's can make everything better.
We’re living through unprecedented times at the moment. People all over the world are being instructed by their governments to stay home to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Some people might not be happy about that, but you can rest assured that your pet pooch will be. They’ll love the opportunity to spend more time with you!
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your increased time together, while still complying with isolation and social distancing guidelines. These tips will also help you to beat the social isolation blues, so it’s win/win!
Tip 1 – Teach your dog some new tricks
There’s great new dog training app available called Puppr that you can use to teach your buddy more than 50 tricks, ranging from basic ones through to advanced circus tricks. Each trick on the app comes with easy-to-follow instructions and pictures. The app also has a built-in clicker.
Whenever you’re doing any sort of puppy or dog training, make sure you:
- try teaching tricks that are appropriate for your buddy’s age and physical/mental ability levels,
- use reward treats (which you can put in one of our cool DOOG treat pouches),
- do the training when they’re hungry and alert (never when they’re tired),
- keep the session short,
- keep it simple,
- make it fun, and
- always end on a positive note.
Of course, there’s an old saying that ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’. If you have an older dog, this isn’t necessarily true. If your buddy doesn’t have any (or many) physical or mental issues, then it might just take a bit longer to change their habits. Be patient and start with easier tricks.
On the flip side, an older dog is likely to be calmer and more focused than a younger dog, so there are some potential upsides.
Tip 2 – Incorporate some fun time
Dogs love playing with you and with toys. Why not combine both at the same time?
At DOOG, we have a great new range of toys called Fetchables. They include a disc, ball and a ‘fetch and tug’ ball. They’ll help you and your pooch to have plenty of fun in your own backyard. They’re also puncture-proof, soft and supple (so they’ll last for ages and be gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums).
We also have a range of other toys available to keep you and your buddy entertained!
Tip 3 – Spend some ‘downtime’ together
Dogs and puppies are just happy spending time with people. Once you’ve spent time teaching them some tricks, playing with some fun toys (or both types of activities), spend some downtime together just lying on the couch. You’ll have earned it and they’ll be happy just keeping you company!
The bottom line
None of us have a crystal ball to know how the coronavirus crisis will play out. Make the most of this extra time you have together at home. When you do, both you and your dog will be happier!
Photo Credits:
Daria Shevtsova, Elle Hughes, Oleg Magni, JenRegnier